Aliya Cycon
In 2016, Aliya Cycon became the first female 'oud player to graduate from Berklee College of Music.
A lifelong composer, pianist and singer, Cycon discovered the 'oud while traveling in Palestine. Arabic music, which soon became her passion, has become the centerpiece of her music--original compositions that include jazz, cinematic, orchestral and even pop/rock influences. Her unique blend of styles and cultural bridging has earned her performances in New York City, Senegal, Beirut, Palestine, Jordan, London, Tunisia, France, Italy, Switzerland and at the Nobel Peace Award Ceremonies in Oslo, Norway. She often uses her music to make statements about social and political issues around the world. For example, her music video cover of the popular Christmas song "Carol of the Ouds" enabled her to raise over $5,000 for Syrian refugee children in 2016. Cycon has released 2 original albums, and is a Cultural Ambassador for the US Embassies in Jordan and Tunisia.